The Best Medication for Insomnia & Anxiety

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 18.1 percent of American adults suffer from an anxiety disorder each year. Approximately 30 percent of adults suffer from insomnia, a common symptom of anxiety disorders.

Types

Antidepressants and anxiolytics are most commonly used for treating anxiety. Anticonvulsants, alpha and beta blockers and atypical antipsychotics may also be used in the treatment of anxiety.

Function

Antidepressants increase levels of norepinephrine and/or serotonin, two neurotransmitters associated with depression and anxiety, in the brain. Benzodiazepines increase production of GABA, a neurotransmitter that induces calming effects at higher levels.

Sleep Aids

If a medication for anxiety does not treat insomnia, a sleep aid may be used. Non-benzodiazepine sedative hypnotics such as Lunesta, Ambien and Sonata, Rozerem, a medication that increases melatonin production and trazodone may be used in conjunction with antianxiety medications for treating insomnia.

Warning

Sedative/hypnotics such as Ambien, Lunesta and Sonata have been associated with memory lapses and performance of complex behaviors while sleeping, such as sleep driving or engaging in sexual intercourse while asleep.

Dependency

Benzodiazepines and sedative/hypnotics may lead to psychological and physical dependency, so long-term use is not advised.

References

• Anxiety Disorder Association of America; Medication Chart
• HelpGuide.org; Sleeping Pills, Sleep Aids and Medications
• National Institute of Mental Health; The Numbers Count: Mental Disorders in America

Resources

• Insomnia